PASADENA – Two paramedics who saved a man’s life with quick thinking were among several people recognized Tuesday at an awards ceremony for firefighters.

At a packed hotel conference room at the Langham Huntington Hotel & Spa, Pasadena Fire Department firefighters and some residents were honored as heroes for incidents they took part in over the past year.

“I am truly honored to be a part of such an outstanding organization,” said fire Chief Dennis Downs. “The men and women of the Fire Department truly care about the community they serve, and truly care about residents and visitors of Pasadena.

“This is our opportunity to thank those members that have gone above and beyond in 2008,” he said.

A particularly emotional moment during the ceremony came when paramedics Richard Roldan and William Basultowere honored for their contributions in saving a young man’s life in February, officials said.

The man had been in and out of hospitals, but no one had been able to diagnose his condition.

He fell ill again while staying at The Westin hotel in Pasadena and collapsed.

Roldan and Basulto responded to the incident and noticed that the man had unusual head injuries and recommended that he go to Cedar Sinai Medical for his treatment. Doctors there were able to diagnose his rare disease and treat him. The patient survived.

Roldan also was honored as the Fire Department’s Employee of the Year.

Also recognized was firefighter Armando Salazar, who assisted the Pasadena Police Department during an altercation Sept. 1, 2008, with a fan at the Rose Bowl. Salazar intervened as two officers attempted to arrest a rowdy fan, saving the spectator from falling over a guard rail and then helping the officers to subdue him.

The awards program has been put on since 2000. It honors firefighters, organizations and civilians who have contributed to the mission of the Fire Department.

More than 150 people attended the event this year, officials said.

“This was by far the most elegant program we have had, thanks to our partnership with Langham,” Downs said.

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